- Over 272 million children globally are now out of school — 21 million more than previous estimates.
- Population growth and new data are key factors driving the rise in out-of-school numbers.
- Countries are set to fall 75 million short of their 2025 education targets.
The latest report from UNESCO’s Global Education Monitoring team has revealed a sharp increase in the global out-of-school population, now standing at 272 million.
In addition to these policy and data factors, the report highlights the methodological limitations of tracking education in conflict zones. Many affected regions suffer from poor data collection, making it difficult to reflect the real impact of crises.
Missed Targets and Lost Futures: The World Is Failing Its Children’s Right to Education
UNESCO’s findings indicate a growing education gap, particularly at the secondary level where over 30% of youth remain out of school. Despite global development pledges, national systems are struggling to meet education goals as school-age populations surge. The increase is most visible in sub-Saharan Africa and South Asia, where education systems face capacity, equity, and access challenges.
The report criticizes the current reliance on administrative data that fails to capture real-time shifts in attendance, especially during emergencies. Survey-based models offer more nuanced insights but are still limited in scope, particularly when sudden conflicts or disasters disrupt schooling.
Efforts to meet Sustainable Development Goal 4 (SDG 4), which targets universal inclusive education by 2030, are in jeopardy. According to projections, countries will be off-track by 75 million students as early as 2025. This shortfall undermines not only educational equity but also long-term economic and social stability.
To mitigate this trend, UNESCO urges stronger political commitment, more resilient data systems, and targeted interventions for at-risk groups. Girls, displaced children, and those in conflict zones are especially vulnerable. The report underscores that without immediate action, millions more could be left behind.
The world is rapidly losing ground on its promise of universal education. Without bold, coordinated action, the futures of 272 million children remain uncertain.
“Education is the most powerful weapon which you can use to change the world.” – Nelson Mandela
